How to Care for a Hibernating Frog

Frogs that live in cold climates usually hibernate during the winter. During hibernation, its heartbeat slows and its body temperature lowers to match the air temperature. Most frogs bury themselves in dirt to hibernate. Hibernation care varies by species, so make sure refrigerator hibernation is appropriate for your frog.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plastic container with lid
• Dirt
• Peat moss
• Vermiculite
• Drill

1. Fill a plastic container with dirt, peat moss, and vermiculite. Make sure the soil is moist. If it is dry, mix in a few tablespoons of water.

2. Drill about 10 holes into the lid of the plastic container. Air must be able to easily circulate through in order for your frog to survive during hibernation.

3. Place your frog in the plastic container and make sure it's buried. In general, a frog will willingly bury itself for hibernation when the weather gets colder.

4. Bring the plastic container inside after your frog has buried itself and when the outside temperature reaches about 39 or 38 degrees F.

5. Put the lid on the plastic container and place it into the refrigerator.

6. Open the refrigerator and allow new air to circulate through at least once a day.

7. Remove the plastic container from the refrigerator, remove the lid, and place the container outside when the temperature outdoors begins to rise above 38 or 39 degrees F.

Tips & Warnings

• Most indoor frogs don't need to hibernate.
• Don't let your refrigerator's temperature drop below 38 degrees F.